Nevolat

No. While Nevolat and Saxenda contain the same active ingredient, they are not the same medication. Because Nevolat is classified as generic liraglutide (or generic Saxenda), it’s cheaper than the branded alternative, while it also comprises different non-active ingredients. However, both treatments do support weight loss in similar ways.

Saxenda used to be popular until it was discontinued by the manufacturer, who wanted to focus on other medications like Wegovy. The patent was allowed to expire, enabling other companies to create products using the same active ingredient. 

Before using your Nevolat injection pen, it should be stored in a refrigerator at between 2˚C - 8˚C. Once opened, you can continue to keep it in the fridge, or leave it out for up to 30 days — provided the temperature does not exceed 30˚C. Pay attention to the expiry date and ensure the medication is used up before this deadline.

When the pen is not in use, it’s important to keep the cap securely fastened to protect the medication from light. Do not use the product if the solution is not clear or colourless, or almost colourless. 

There are several important steps that should be taken when administering Nevolat injections. These are: 

Step One: Preparing the Pen

• Check the label to ensure it’s the correct medication
• Remove the pen cap
• Examine the solution through the window
• Take a new needle and remove the paper tab
• Attach the needle securely by pushing it straight onto the pen and turning right
• Remove the outer needle cap. You’ll need this later
• Pull off the inner needle cap and throw it away 

Step Two: Checking the Flow (for each new pen)

• Turn the dose selector to the ‘flow check’ symbol, ensuring it lines up with the pointer
• Hold the pen with the needle pointing up
• Press and hold down the dose button until the counter returns to 0. A drop of solution should appear on the tip
• If this doesn’t happen, you can repeat the above process up to six times. Should you still not see any solution, you may need a new needle, or even a new pen

Step Three: Selecting Your Dose

• Turn the dose selector until it displays the correct dose

Step Four: Injecting the Medication 

• Insert the needle into your chosen injection site, ensuring you can see the dose counter at all times
• Press and hold the dose button until the counter shows 0. You may also hear a clicking noise
• With the counter at 0, continue holding the dose button and count slowly to 6
• Remove the needle and release the dose button. There may be a drop of solution visible, though this will not have affected your dose
• If you notice a drop of blood on the injection site, dab it with a clean swab
• Place the needle tip into the outer cap without touching either object. 
• Once covered and secure, unscrew the needle and dispose of it carefully

Because Nevolat injections are safe for long-term use, it’s possible to remain on the medication until you reach your weight loss goals. This is unless you have difficulty managing the side effects, or feel you would be better suited to an alternative treatment.

Everyone’s weight loss journey is unique, so it’s important to regularly evaluate your progress and determine the path that works best for you. Our clinician will be able to help you with this. 

As with most prescription weight loss medications, Nevolat can cause side effects — although not everyone will experience them. Known issues with liraglutide include: 

It’s important to note that the above is not an exhaustive list. A more detailed explanation of potential Nevolat side effects can be found in the Patient Information Leaflet. If you’re experiencing serious reactions such as breathing problems, rapid heartbeat, severe nausea/vomiting, or a swelling of the face or throat, you should stop using the treatment immediately and call 999 or visit A&E. 

How Long Do Side Effects Last?

The most common Nevolat side effects will clear up after a few days or weeks, as your body gets used to the treatment or your dosage increases. Once you settle on your maintenance dose, you should find they ease significantly. If difficulties persist, it’s important to consult your clinician as the medication may not be right for you.

Most side effects can be treated with over-the-counter treatments such as painkillers. Should you feel nauseous or experience vomiting, you should get plenty of rest, hydrate, and eat light foods. 

If you forget to administer your Nevolat weight loss injection at the correct time, you should do the following — depending on how quickly you realise:

• Within 12 hours: As soon as you remember 
• More than 12 hours: At the usual time on the following day
• More than two days: Restart at the lowest dose of 0.6 mg to avoid severe side effects

You should never double or increase the dose on the following day to try and make up for the one you missed. 

It’s important to note that Nevolat (and liraglutide in general) may not be suitable for everyone, depending on their circumstances or health conditions. You might not be able to take this medication if the following applies: 

If you do find that Nevolat isn’t suitable for you, a clinician may be able to recommend an alternative weight loss treatment to help you reach your goals. 

Yes, it’s perfectly possible to switch to Nevolat from other weight loss medications such as Wegovy and Mounjaro. You will need to wait at least five weeks to allow the previous treatment to leave your system and start on the 0.6 mg dose of Nevolat — no matter the strength you were taking previously.

It’s important to consult a doctor or clinician before making the decision to switch medications, as they will be able to advise you on how to do so safely and advise whether Nevolat or liraglutide would be suitable for your circumstances.